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Child Development Associate Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

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A bachelor's or associate degree in Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, Child Development, Psychology, or a related field, or a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential. * A minimum ...

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A bachelor's or associate degree in Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, Child Development, Psychology, or a related field, or a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential. * A minimum ...

$19.80 - $24.20/hr

Child Development Associate (CDA); OR * Associate degree (or higher) in any subject area; OR * High school diploma (or equivalent) and completion of at least 60 credit hours in any subject area; OR

$18.40 - $27.09/hr

OR A high school diploma (or its equivalent) AND a current Child Development Associate credential; OR A high school diploma (or its equivalent) AND certification of training and competence in the ...

Showing results 21-40

Child Development Associate information

See Tennessee salary details

$26.3K

$48.5K

$73.5K

How much do child development associate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for child development associate in Tennessee is $48,483.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,600.00 and $54,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What can I do with a child development associate?

A Child Development Associate (CDA) credential qualifies individuals to work as early childhood educators, preschool teachers, or childcare providers. With this credential, you can work in daycare centers, preschools, or early learning programs, often requiring knowledge of child development principles and basic caregiving skills. It can also serve as a stepping stone for advanced roles in early childhood education or pursuing further certifications.

What is a Child Development Associate?

A Child Development Associate (CDA) is a credentialed early childhood educator who has demonstrated the ability to effectively work with young children and their families. The CDA credential is awarded by the Council for Professional Recognition and is recognized nationally as a mark of competence in the field of early childhood education. Earning a CDA involves completing coursework, gaining work experience, and passing an assessment in one of several settings, such as preschool, infant/toddler, or family child care. CDAs play an important role in supporting the development, learning, and well-being of children from birth to age five.

Is it worth getting a child development associate certification?

A Child Development Associate (CDA) certification can enhance job prospects and demonstrate competence in early childhood education. It is often required or preferred by employers and can lead to higher wages and career advancement in childcare settings. The certification involves completing training, gaining experience, and passing an exam, making it a valuable credential for those seeking to work with young children.

How does a Child Development Associate typically collaborate with lead teachers and other staff in early childhood education settings?

Child Development Associates (CDAs) work closely with lead teachers and other staff to support classroom activities, implement lesson plans, and ensure a safe, nurturing environment for children. They often assist in observing children's progress, communicating with parents, and adapting activities to meet individual needs. Effective collaboration involves participating in team meetings, sharing observations, and contributing ideas to enhance the learning experience. This teamwork helps create a cohesive, supportive environment that benefits both children and staff.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Child Development Associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Child Development Associate, you need a foundational understanding of early childhood development, child safety, and age-appropriate teaching methods, typically demonstrated by earning a CDA credential. Familiarity with classroom management software, child assessment tools, and health and safety regulations is often required. Strong communication, patience, and creativity are critical soft skills for building relationships with children and families. These skills and qualifications ensure the delivery of high-quality early childhood education and foster a safe, supportive learning environment.
What are the most commonly searched types of Child Development jobs in Tennessee? The most popular types of Child Development jobs in Tennessee are:
What are popular job titles related to Child Development Associate jobs in Tennessee? For Child Development Associate jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Child Development Associate jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Child Development Associate jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Child Development Associate jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Child Development Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Child Development Associate job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,483 per year, or $23.3 per hour.

Lead Teacher Preschool (3-year-old classroom)

The Goddard School Cordova

Cordova, TN • On-site

$15 - $17/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 21 days ago

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The Goddard School rating

5.9

Company rating: 5.9 out of 10

Based on 355 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 23 rated private schools and tutoring


Job description

Overview

The Goddard School is currently seeking a reliable, experienced, and energetic teacher for our 3 year old Preschool classroom at our Cordova, TN location. Prospects will be selected based on their ability to engage children in a safe, nurturing and loving manner, using their creativity along with Goddard’s Developmental Guidelines to develop fun and imaginative lesson plans tailored to the unique needs of every child.

Job Responsibilities

  • Establish and maintain a safe, healthy and nurturing learning environment
  • Write and implement weekly lesson plans based on Goddard’s inquiry-based curriculum "Wonder of Learning"
  • Advance children’s physical and intellectual competence while supporting each child’s social and emotional development, and individual needs
  • Establish positive and effective family relations through interactive parent communication
  • Appropriate and professional communication with fellow staff and management, cultivating a healthy and fun working environment that fosters teamwork
  • Participate in regular staff meetings and training sessions
  • Ensure compliance with Goddard’s Industry leading Quality Assurance standards
  • Flexible and ability to work well with others

Job Requirements
All candidates, who wish to be considered must meet the following criteria:

  • A bachelor’s or associate degree in Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, Child Development, Psychology, or a related field, or a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential.
  • A minimum of 1 year experience in a licensed childcare center or preschool
  • Demonstrated knowledge of developmentally appropriate practices
  • Positive attitude and inherent love for young children

The Goddard School offers competitive compensation and benefits, based on experience, education and certifications, and is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Benefits include:

  • Paid time off
  • Holidays
  • Employee discounts
  • Short-term disability

Company Description

Private preschool that offers exceptional early childhood education that meets the needs of the whole child. Our full & half-day academic programs for infant through junior kindergarten and active Summer Camps promote S.T.E.A.M. learning and the social and emotional growth of the child.


What The Goddard School employees say

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About Goddard School

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

As part of a larger franchise system, in operation for over 30 years, we are the premier preschool for children from six weeks to six years old. We have over 560 franchised Schools with more than 70,000 students in 38 states. The Goddard School uses the most current academically endorsed methods to ensure children have fun while learning the skills they need for long-term success in school and in life.

Industry

Education, education programs administration, personal services and elementary and secondary schools

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

King of Prussia, PA, US